1. Describe the stasis in the play: where, when, who, what, etc. in a paragraph.
Amir and his wife, Emily, live in their Upper EastSide apartment in the earlier 2010's. Emily is painting a portrait of her husband, being inspired by Islamic inspired art. Emily is passionate about reviving Islamic techniques and history, while Amir is conflicted about renouncing his Muslim faith and honoring his background.
2. What is the intrusion?
The argument that sets up the central conflict for the rest of the play is the one between Amir and his nephew, Hussein (Abe). Abe is dressed in more American apparel to seem like less of a terrorist. Abe comes to ask for Amir's help in representing an Islamic man who Abe thinks is being wrongly accused of terrorist acts. Amir refuses, but his wife Emily convinces him. When pictures of Amir appear in the papers next to an Islamic religious leader, he worries how he will be perceived at his law firm.
3. What is the unique factor?
The unique factor is Amir's opinion on his background and his "people". His mixed feelings and bold statements about situations like traditional dress and 9/11 cause controversy at the dinner party with Isaac and Jory as well as many arguments with his wife who tries to be the mediator at the party and in their personal relationship.
4. What is the dramatic question that should be answered by the end of the play?
How far will Amir go to defend his beliefs?
What will become of Amir and Emily's marriage?
Will Emily's artwork receive the recognition she believes it deserves?
5. Provide an illustration of the two kinds of exposition that the play has in it.
Known to most: the differing opinions on race and religion at the dinner party
Known by one: Amir's delayed appreciation for Emily's art and the message she tried to convey with her work
6. Identify the most theatrical moment in the play and of what importance it seems to be.
When Amir lashes out in anger at Emily and beats her, both Abe and Amir both stand in disbelief about what has been done.
7. List some of the themes of the play.
Religion
Pride
Betrayal
Tradition
8. What does the chief character want and what are some obstacles that stand in the way of his getting what he wants?
Amir wants a coveted position at his law firm, but is obstructed by his coworker's perception of him, and a recent discovery about a lie that Amir originally told the company about his background, leading them to question his intentions.
9. Describe some possible images in the play and how does the title help us understand the play.
The painting hanging above the mantel in Air and Emily's apartment, “Portrait of Juan de Pareja”, represents Emily's fascination with themes of racism.
Abe's clothes shows how serious it is for people of Middle-Eastern descent in today's society, fearing government's suspicions based solely on their appearance.
10. Briefly define the family relationships that are examined in the play.
Abe and Amir are at odds because of Amir's perceived betrayal of his people in his refusal to represent an Islamic religious leader in court. Amir and Emily also seem on edge for most of the play because of Amir's outspokenness about his views. Emily plays mediator, encouraging him to embrace his heritage, but Amir constantly shuts down her attempts.
2. What is the intrusion?
3. What is the unique factor?
4. What is the dramatic question that should be answered by the end of the play?
5. Provide an illustration of the two kinds of exposition that the play has in it.
6. Identify the most theatrical moment in the play and of what importance it seems to be.
7. List some of the themes of the play.
8. What does the chief character want and what are some obstacles that stand in the way of his getting what he wants?
9. Describe some possible images in the play and how does the title help us understand the play.
10. Briefly define the family relationships that are examined in the play.